Chicago City Council February 23, 2022
RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE OF THE LATE RICHARD LOUIS DUCHOSSOIS
WHEREAS, It is with great sadness we learn of the passing of Richard Louis Duchossois, affectionately called "Mr. D"; and
WHEREAS, He was born on October 7, 1921 in Chicago's Beverly neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, He led a life committed to the service of others, most notably, as a veteran, revolutionary and businessman; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Duchossois attended Morgan Park Military Academy, and Washington and Lee University, before beginning active military service during World War II, where he would go on to serve in five European campaigns, including as commander with the 610th Tank Destroyer Battalion ofthe United States Army in Normandy; and
WHEREAS, He was decorated war hero who received a Purple Heart for his injuries in combat at the Moselle River and two Bronze Stars for his military service in World War II; and
WHEREAS, Later, in an effort to motivate his son Bruce, Mr. Duchossois promised to get a horse if his grades improved, and unbeknownst to all, Bruce's successful report card would begin his father's incremental ownership and lifelong passion for Arlington Park; and
WHEREAS, He was known for his big heart and always looking out for his team-remembered for doing things such as throwing birthday parties for his employees' children, paying for medical expenses for-those who did not have health insurance, going the funerals of his employees' family members, and humbly directing traffic at the track; and
WHEREAS, On July 31, 1985, an overnight fire-responsible for destroying Arlington Park's historic Post, Padlock Club, adjoining grandstand and racing complex-forever marked Mr. Duchossois' legacy as he quickly responded by dedicating his time and money to rebuilding the racetrack into a world-class destination, and most remarkably, in just 25-short-days after the fire, held the track's showcase race today known as "The Miracle Million"; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Duchossois is survived by his wife, Mary Judith; children, Craig, Dayle, Kimberly, Steve and Paul; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; and, now,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and members of the City Council of Chicago, gathered here this 23rd day of February 2022, do hereby express our sorrow with the passing of Richard Louis Duchossois, and extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends; and,
Gilbert Villegas Alderman of the 36,h Ward
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family of Richard Louis Duchossois.
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